Colorful Celebrations and Festivals in Romania for Kids

Romania is a land of joy, music, and celebration! From spring festivals to magical winter holidays, Romanian people love to come together, sing songs, share food, and enjoy traditions passed down for generations. Let’s explore the most exciting Romanian festivals and how children take part in them!

Dragobete – Romania’s Valentine’s Day

Dragobete is Romania’s version of Valentine’s Day, celebrated on February 24th. It honors love and kindness, and is based on an ancient legend of a local Cupid-like figure. On this day, young people go outside, sing songs, and pick spring flowers. It’s all about love, joy, and welcoming the warmth of the new season!

Mărțișor – A Spring Tradition with Red and White

On March 1st, Romanians celebrate Mărțișor, a lovely tradition that marks the beginning of spring. People give each other little red and white strings tied to tiny charms or decorations. These are called mărțișoare and are worn like brooches to bring luck, health, and happiness. It’s a sweet way to say “Hello, Spring!”

Easter – A Time of Light and Colors

Easter is one of the most important holidays in Romania. The night before Easter, families go to church and light candles from a sacred flame, a symbol of peace and hope. Kids love the tradition of painting colorful eggs, especially red ones that represent love and the story of Jesus. Some families use onion peels to make cool patterns on the eggs! Afterward, everyone enjoys a big family meal together.

Christmas – A Magical Holiday Full of Traditions

Christmas in Romania is celebrated from December 24th to 27th, and it’s full of joy, songs, and special food. Children go from house to house singing carols like “In Vitleem Town” and “Today Christ is Born.” Families prepare traditional dishes such as sarmale (cabbage rolls), sausages, and delicious pork specialties.

On December 6th, children clean their boots and leave them by the door for Saint Nicholas (Moș Nicolae), who brings sweets and small gifts. He’s considered Santa’s cousin and kicks off the winter holiday season!

Another special tradition is The Star, where children carry a handmade shiny star and sing about the night Jesus was born. It reminds people of the star that guided the wise men to Bethlehem.

New Year’s Eve – Full of Joy and Songs

On New Year’s Eve, children carry bells and sing cheerful songs to bring good luck. The next morning, they visit neighbors with a colorful stick called a Sorcova, decorated with paper flowers. As they sing, they tap gently on friends’ shoulders and throw rice to bring wishes of health and happiness. One part of the song says:

“Sorcova, the merry sorcova,
Long may you live, to a hoary old age…”

Meanwhile, big cities come alive with fireworks, music, and fun concerts.

Unique Cultural Celebrations

The Medieval Festival in Sibiu takes place every August. In this magical event, the town is filled with knights in armor, princesses in gowns, musicians, dancers, and storytellers. Sibiu was even named the Cultural Capital of Europe in 2007!

Another fascinating event is The Maidens’ Fair on Mount Găina, held near July 20th. Families dress in traditional costumes, dance, sing, and—sometimes—match girls and boys for future weddings! It’s a mix of folklore, love, and tradition.

Bring Romanian Culture to Life with Dinolingo

If you’re excited to learn more about Romanian holidays, stories, and songs, Dinolingo is the perfect place to start! Kids can:

• Explore Romanian culture through videos, games, and fairy tales

• Sing traditional songs and try fun quizzes

• Earn rewards and stickers as they learn

• Use the platform on web, iOS, or Android

• Share one account with up to 6 family members

• Learn offline too with printable worksheets and reading tools

Dinolingo makes it fun and easy for kids aged 2–14 to discover languages and cultures from around the world!